Solar eclipse darkens large swath of India

TAREGNA, India (AP) — The longest solar eclipse of the 21st century created near darkness soon after dawn today in a swath of India stretching from the west coast to the northern plains where millions gathered in the open to watch.

But millions more shuttered themselves in, gripped by fearful myths in a country that abounds in Hindu mythology-based superstitions and fables, one of which says an eclipse is caused when a dragon-demon swallows the sun.

A thick cloud cover over India that had obscured the sun when the eclipse began at dawn parted in several cities, minutes before the total eclipse — caused when the moon covers the sun completely to cast a shadow on earth — at 6.24 a.m.

One of the best views of the complete eclipse, shown live on several television channels, appeared to be in the town of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges river, sacred to devout Hindus.

Thousands of Hindus took a dip in keeping with the ancient belief that bathing in the river at Varanasi, especially on special occasions, cleanses one’s sins. The eclipse was seen for 3 minutes and 48 seconds.

The eclipse — visible only in Asia — will move north and east from India to Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan and China.

Scientists said the Indian village of Taregna would have the clearest view, where thousands of scientists, nature enthusiasts and students gathered. Their party was spoiled by thick clouds and overnight rains, but even that was welcome news for the agricultural area that has seen scant rainfall this monsoon season

At its peak, the eclipse lasted 6 minutes and 39 seconds in other parts of Asia.

It is the longest such eclipse since July 11, 1991, when a total eclipse lasting 6 minutes, 53 seconds was visible from Hawaii to South America. There will not be a longer eclipse than today’s until 2132.

Scientists set up telescopes and other equipment in Taregna a day in advance to make the most of the window of opportunity provided by the eclipse.

A 10-member team of scientists from the premier Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bangalore and the Indian air force planned to fly and film the eclipse, an air force press release said.

But millions across India were shunning the sight and planned to stay indoors.

Even in regions where the eclipse was not visible, pregnant women were advised to stay indoors in curtained rooms over a belief that the sun’s invisible rays would harm the fetus, and the baby would be born with disfigurations, birthmarks or a congenital defect.

In the northern Indian state of Punjab, authorities ordered schools to begin an hour late to prevent children from gazing at the sun.